Background: Use of computer and information technology has revolutionized the current concepts of learning. The internet, one of the key developments in this field, provides instant access to latest medical information. As the scenario of medical practice is becoming evidence based, it is imperative for the current generation medical students to become updated.
Aim: To estimate the extent and purpose of internet usage for upgrading of knowledge among undergraduates of a medical university.
Material and Method: This study was conducted at J.N Medical College, Wardha. Two-hundred and six MBBS students were given a validated questionnaire survey to fill and the data was then interpreted. Descriptive statistical analysis was done using frequency and percentages.
Results: Eighty-three percent of students used internet facility, 52% percent used it for academic purpose. Only 2% used it for more than 2 hours in a day mostly to prepare seminars (97%) and search topics (95%) of interest as persuaded by the professors. Students (27%) felt the need to use the net for viewing clinical exams and online lectures and fourteen percent read journals to advance their knowledge. Students felt that internet is helpful for learning (82%) and it should be part of the curriculum (72%).
Conclusion: The medical students have still not mentally accepted internet facility to increase their academic proficiency and updating the fast changing advancement and researches in medical sciences.
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